It just makes sense.
That’s why two popular businesses on National Road in Wheeling are teaming up for the “Summer SendOff” on Sunday, Sept 6 from 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. The block party will take place in the parking lot between the two eateries, and the event will feature live music, food and drink specials, and plenty of space to hang out and enjoy the day.
“The ‘Summer SendOff’ really grew out of a desire to bring people together,” explained The Wheel’s Debra Forish. “When we acquired the former TJ’s property and began the renovation and transformation into The Wheel, it was important to us from the beginning that we be more than just a new business—we wanted to be good neighbors and become an active part of the community.
“We also understood that TJ’s had been part of the neighborhood for a long time, and with any change to a familiar place, there can naturally be some hesitation,” she said. “We wanted the community to know that while we were bringing new life to the space, we also respected its history and wanted to contribute something positive to the neighborhood.”
There will be a $10 cover charge, wristbands will be distributed at the entrance, and there will be a draft beer truck from Carenbauer’s with Ultra and Yuengling. Plus, Brew Keepers in Wheeling will have its “Flip Flop,” and canned beverages will be available from various beers, hard ciders to seltzers.
Limited food menus will be available for order at the event from both The Wheel and The 19th Hole, and attendees will also be able to go to either establishment to order off of the full menu.
People can park in either of the two parking lots next to The Wheel, and there is also a small backup lot next to the athletic fields.
“Last summer, I suggested the idea of a parking lot party to our ownership team as a way to bring our neighbors, customers and the community together, and they loved the idea,” Forish recalled. “So, I reached out to Angie, owner of The 19th Hole, and she was immediately on board.
“Now, that initial idea of a parking lot party has grown into the ‘Summer SendOff’, and both teams have embraced the event and are excited to make it something special,” she explained. “More than anything, we’re excited about what the Summer SendOff represents: Two neighboring businesses supporting one another and creating something positive.
‘Hello Neighbor’
Both venues are known for tasty foods, lots of TVs with sports on them, and owners who are committed to their community.
Angie Szalay has owned and operated The 19th Hole for nearly 14 years, and Mark Bardwil, Gee Lofstead, and Dave Pilaski opened The Wheel in October 2025. Together, they’ve scheduled local bands The New Age Adenas, 7-South, and the Easy Street Band to perform between noon and 9 p.m.
Plus, cornhole and Euchre tournaments will take place during the day.
“The 19th Hole and The Wheel share more than a parking lot—we share a community. Being good neighbors means supporting one another, working together and creating opportunities that benefit the people and businesses around us,” Forish said. “The Summer SendOff is a great example of what can happen when two local businesses collaborate rather than compete, and we hope that spirit helps make our little corner of Wheeling an even better place to gather, have fun and feel connected.
“We hope it becomes an annual tradition that the community looks forward to each year.”
And it could be just the beginning, too.
“There are a lot of possibilities,” Forish said. “With two neighboring venues working together, we have the opportunity to create larger events than either of us might do on our own—from live music and themed block parties to holiday celebrations, game-day events, fundraisers and other community-focused gatherings.
“We’d love to continue finding fun reasons to bring people together, support other local businesses and make this a destination for the community.”
